Tigers Sign Veteran Reliever Alex Wilson to Minor-League Deal
By Sean Facey
The Detroit Tigers remain active on the open market, and have added a high-upside arm to the bullpen, who also happens to be a familiar face.
Veteran reliever Alex Wilson has signed with the Tigers on a minor-league deal. The agreement also includes an invite to spring training.
Tigers Sign Alex Wilson To Minor-League Deal https://t.co/t8bX5FW0LJ pic.twitter.com/dEkEopV1xI
— MLB Trade Rumors (@mlbtraderumors) January 4, 2020
A seven-year veteran entering his age-33 season, Wilson is coming off of a rather brutal season for the Milwaukee Brewers. He pitched in just 11.1 innings, allowing 15 hits, nine walks and 12 earned runs. The Chicago Cubs signed him late in the season, but he didn't appear in a game for them.
Though 2019 was a particularly rough year, he still stands out as a possible bounce-back candidate heading into 2020.
Alex Wilson spent last year with the Brewers and Cubs. A familiar face to bring back. https://t.co/jY4owhgI4s
— Motor City Bengals (@MCB_Tigers) January 4, 2020
Between 2015 and 2018, Wilson posted a 3.20 ERA in Detroit. The key to his success during that time was his control. If he can find the form that saw him post a minuscule 5.8% walk rate in with the Tigers, he could turn out to be a reliable option out of the bullpen.
The veteran, should he bounce back, can also become a trade asset for the rebuilding Tigers at the deadline.